Winter in Devon: Seven activities to enjoy the great outdoors in all weathers

Devon may be better known for its beaches and cream teas, but when winter arrives, the county offers plenty of opportunities to stay active, adventurous and outdoorsy.

From windswept coasts to wooded valleys and indoor centres, here are seven of the best places in Devon to try winter sports, whatever the weather throws your way.

1. Dartmoor National Park – Wild Winter Hiking & Trail Running

When frost settles over Dartmoor’s tors and valleys, the landscape becomes a dramatic playground for winter walkers and runners. Crisp air, quiet trails and occasional snowfall make hiking and trail running here a bracing seasonal challenge. Well-marked routes near Haytor, Postbridge and Princetown are popular, but conditions can change quickly, so preparation is key.

2. North Devon Coast – Winter Surfing at Croyde and Woolacombe

Winter is prime time for serious surfers. Beaches like Croyde Bay and Woolacombe deliver powerful Atlantic swells, fewer crowds and some of the best wave quality of the year. With a thick wetsuit, gloves and boots, winter surfing in North Devon is a thrilling test of endurance and skill.

3. Exeter Snow Centre – Dry-Slope Skiing and Snowboarding

For those craving alpine sports without leaving the county, Exeter Snow Centre offers year-round skiing and snowboarding on its dry slope. Winter evenings bring a real seasonal buzz, with coaching sessions, freestyle practice and beginner lessons ideal for sharpening skills before a mountain holiday.

4. Haldon Forest – Cold-Weather Mountain Biking

Haldon Forest Park near Exeter remains a magnet for mountain bikers throughout winter. Its well-drained trails cope well with wet conditions, making it a reliable choice for off-road cycling when other routes turn muddy. Winter riding here offers quieter paths, misty woodland views and a solid workout.

5. Roadford Lake – Winter Paddle Sports

Set on the Devon–Cornwall border, Roadford Lake stays open for kayaking and paddleboarding during the colder months for experienced paddlers. Calm waters and peaceful surroundings create ideal conditions for winter training sessions — just don’t forget the thermal layers and safety gear.

6. Pop-Up Ice Rinks – Seasonal Skating Fun

Each winter, Devon communities can transform into a festive ice rink, with Torbay hosting one on the seafront this year. Welcoming families, beginners and confident skaters alike. Ice skating is a classic winter sport, and this seasonal attraction brings a touch of continental charm to the Devon coast.

7. Indoor Climbing Centres – Exeter and Plymouth

When storms roll in, indoor climbing centres such as The Quay Climbing Centre in Exeter and Clip ’n Climb Plymouth offer a perfect winter alternative. Bouldering and rope climbing provide strength, balance and mental focus, making them popular cold-weather training options.

Devon may not have ski resorts or frozen lakes, but its mix of coast, countryside and indoor facilities proves winter sport doesn’t need snow to thrive. With the right gear and a sense of adventure, the colder months can be some of the most rewarding of the year.